The politicians may own the spotlight, but it's really all about the delegates at any national political convention.

They're getting a front row seat to political history in the making while rubbing elbows with their party's elite.

Around 5 p.m., delegates were just beginning to arrive at the Tampa Bay Times Forum.

The session will begin at 7, but it is a half hour earlier than previously scheduled due to Monday's delay.

They're trying to squeeze in as much as they can.

As they make their way in, some are surprised at just how close they are to the party leaders they so passionately follow.

"It's been fascinating. I mean on the floor I'm in the 10th row," said PA delegate and Allentown School Board member Robert Smith, Jr.

"It's just been fantastic," said Lehigh County Controller Glenn Eckhart.  "Everyone's who's involved in politics should get to experience this at least once."

It's a first go around for these Pennsylvania delegates and fellow delegates are adding to the excitement with their choice of hats.

"It's not just been partying. It's been a lot of like networking as well," said Smith.

For Smith the focus is education and what he says is much needed work on the pension system.

"It's taxing all the school districts in our area and it's the number one problem in all the school district being affected right now," said Smith.

Eckhart has been actively involved in politics for 18 years and this experience, he says, is once in a lifetime.

"I can't think of a better year to be involved at least as a Republican because we clearly need a new direction in our country," he said.

From the looks of the seating arrangements on the convention floor, Pennsylvania has a great view.

"We have great seats-- right down on the floor," said Smith.